Press Release
For Immediate Release
press.office@ssa.gov
Social Security Commissioner Visits New York Field Office to Highlight Expanded In-person Disability Hearing Services for Hudson Valley Region
West Nyack, NY – Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano today visited the Social Security field office in West Nyack, New York with Representative Mike Lawler (NY-17) to tour the new disability hearings space that will serve individuals across the Hudson Valley region. The recently renovated facility will allow Social Security to conduct in-person disability hearings for local claimants, improving access to critical services and reducing the need for long-distance travel.
In December 2024, the previous administration chose to close the White Plains, New York Hearing Office, leaving Hudson Valley residents without a convenient location to attend in-person hearings. Beginning November 17 with its first in-person hearing, the West Nyack site will host administrative law judges and hearing support staff who will conduct hearings both in-person and virtually, expanding options for claimants and representatives. Across the country, claimants are increasingly choosing to participate in hearings virtually via SSA’s digital service channels. Last year, almost 90% of hearings were conducted via online video or on the phone with an SSA administrative law judge.
“SSA continues to provide Americans with the support they need and the customer service they deserve, and the new hearings space reflects our commitment to meeting people where they are. By establishing a new hearing office in the Hudson Valley, we are making it easier for people to access and receive the services they rely on,” said Commissioner Bisignano. “I want to thank Congressman Lawler for his strong support of Social Security's mission and his advocacy for the people of the region. I also want to thank all our employees at the agency who continue to deliver for the American people through the current government shutdown.”
“From the moment the Biden Administration announced the closure of the White Plains hearing office, I pledged to work tirelessly to find a solution for Hudson Valley residents. I am proud of my work with Commissioner Bisignano and the Trump Administration to find a solution that keeps these essential services in the Hudson Valley and also saves taxpayer dollars. Social Security has been a cornerstone of American life for 90 years, helping millions retire with dignity and ensuring that those facing hardship get the support they deserve. I’ll always fight to protect and strengthen Social Security, making sure it works efficiently, accessibly, and fairly for the people who depend on it,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).
Since his confirmation, Commissioner Bisignano has led a digital transformation at SSA that has quickly improved the service Americans receive in-person, on the phone, and online. The updates to the West Nyack Field Office are part of SSA’s broader efforts to enhance the customer experience through modernized facilities, expanded digital services, and investments in technology that support employees and the public alike. While maintaining the quality and integrity of our program, these efforts have driven significant improvement to customer service including an over 26% reduction in the initial disability claims backlog and reducing disability hearing wait times by more than 60 days since the historic highs in 2024.
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